A collection of nostalgic Japanese hit songs from the 1980s that still linger in our ears
Speaking of the 1980s, it was a time when countless timeless hits emerged that remain popular even today!
It was also an era filled with artists who influenced many of today’s musicians, and in many ways can be seen as the dawn of J-POP leading up to the explosive million-selling boom of the 1990s.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of especially recommended songs from the hit-packed 80s.
Please enjoy these nostalgic chart-toppers that are sure to bring back memories of the time.
- Classic and hit Japanese pop songs from the nostalgic 80s
- Masterpieces and hit songs of 80s Japanese pop (kayōkyoku)
- [Nostalgic Classics] Hit Japanese Love Songs from the 1980s
- A special feature on classic and hit songs by bands that were active in the 1980s
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- 80s commercial songs. A roundup of Japanese songs from the 80s that have been used in commercials.
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese pop idols of the 80s
- Popular Nostalgic Hits and Classics Ranking [1980s Japanese Music Ranking]
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Top Male Singer-Songwriter Hits of the 1980s: Ranking [2026]
- A heartbreak song that was a hit in the 1980s. A classic and popular track in Japanese music.
- So nostalgic it feels new? Showa retro classics that colored Japan’s period of rapid economic growth
Japanese hit songs of the 1980s: a nostalgic collection of memorable classics (111–120)
Don’t take off my sailor uniformKunikyo Sayuri
The debut song of the pioneering large-scale female idol group, Onyanko Club.
Even the bold lyrics start to feel wholesome when sung so brightly by such a big group.
Unfortunately, the show ‘Yūyake Nyan Nyan’ wasn’t broadcast on regional stations.
To each their own.Ōe Senri
Released in 1984, it’s a pop song that hasn’t faded even after more than 30 years.
It was used in a commercial for UHA Mikakuto’s candy “DATE KISS,” and the commercial version’s arrangement was handled by Tetsuya Komuro, who had just debuted with TM NETWORK at the time.
KISS IN THE MOONLIGHTUP-BEAT
Here is the fourth single by UP-BEAT, which served as the theme song for the drama “My Classmate Is 13,” starring Kumiko Goto.
It was released in 1987.
UP-BEAT, formed in 1981 in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, saw two members leave in 1990 due to musical differences and disbanded in 1995, but vocalist Takehiko Hiroishi has continued his career.
He has a captivating voice.
SOMEDAYSano Motoharu
A single released in 1981, it is a timeless masterpiece that represents Motoharu Sano.
The piano-led intro stirs the heartfelt hope that everyone carries—“someday, surely.” Its Phil Spector-style arrangement also won over Western music fans.
It’s widely familiar as a commercial jingle, including for JR Tokai, among many others.
Flashy!!!Nagayama Miho
This track layers Miho Nakayama’s powerful vocals over an uptempo dance tune woven from synthesizers and drum machines.
Released as a single in July 1987, it became a hit, peaking at No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
With lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, music by Tsugutoshi Goto, and arrangement by Motoki Funayama, it brilliantly fuses ’80s synth-pop with glamorous dance music.
Although it had no commercial tie-ins, its captivating performance and vibrant sound won over many fans.
Featuring an energetic melody and positive lyrics, it’s perfect for dance parties or driving.
It’s a great pick both for those who spent their youth in the ’80s and for listeners who want to enjoy a fresh take on a retro sound.
Roses and WineRED WARRIORS
This “Roses and Wine” is RED WARRIORS’ second single, released in 1987.
It’s one of their signature songs.
It was almost always performed live and really gets the crowd going.
SEVEN DAYS WARTM NETWORK
“SEVEN DAYS WAR” is TM NETWORK’s 14th single, released in 1988.
The song was used as the theme for the film “Our Seven-Day War,” starring Rie Miyazawa.
It’s a track whose final chorus really hits home.